Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Skillet

This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, creamy orzo, and the rich tang of sun-dried tomatoes. The technique focuses on layering flavors directly in the skillet, creating a cohesive, restaurant-quality dish with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan convenience – Everything cooks in a single skillet, reducing cleanup while maximizing flavor development.
Balanced, hearty meal – Protein, pasta, and vegetables come together for a satisfying and complete dish.
Creamy without being heavy – The combination of broth, cream, and Parmesan creates richness that remains light and silky.
Weeknight-friendly timing – Ready in about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Flexible ingredient options – Easily adapt with frozen spinach, half-and-half, or different herbs.
Elegant yet simple presentation – Vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil provide color and freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Skillet

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – Provides lean protein and hearty texture.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Prevents sticking and helps brown the chicken for flavor.
1 small onion, diced – Builds the aromatic base and subtle sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and savory intensity.
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and drained – Delivers concentrated tangy richness and color.
1 cup orzo pasta – Absorbs broth and creates a creamy, risotto-like consistency.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Cooks the orzo while layering savory flavor.
1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen) – Contributes color, nutrients, and freshness.
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half – Creates a smooth, velvety sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness, umami, and body to the sauce.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Provides herbal balance and warmth.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Enhances and rounds out flavors.
Fresh basil, optional – Bright garnish that lifts the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the seasoned chicken pieces for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Sauté the aromatics – In the same skillet, cook the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Toast the orzo and tomatoes – Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and orzo, cooking for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta and intensify flavor.

Simmer in broth – Pour in the chicken broth and Italian seasoning, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Finish with cream, spinach, and cheese – Stir in spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan, then return the chicken to the skillet. Mix until creamy, heated through, and evenly combined; adjust seasoning as needed.

Garnish and serve – Remove from heat, top with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm for best texture and flavor.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes – They provide softer texture and deeper flavor than dry-packed varieties.
Stir occasionally while simmering – Prevents orzo from sticking and ensures even cooking.
Adjust creaminess to taste – Add a splash of broth for lighter texture or extra Parmesan for richness.
Cut chicken evenly – Uniform pieces cook quickly and remain tender.
Season gradually – Parmesan and tomatoes add salt, so taste before adding more.
Serve immediately for best texture – Orzo continues absorbing liquid as it sits.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 generous portions suitable for a full dinner
Calories: Approximately 450–550 per serving, depending on cream and cheese quantities

Perfect Pairings

Crisp green salad – Adds freshness and balances the creamy texture.
Garlic bread or focaccia – Ideal for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Roasted vegetables – Provides additional depth and nutrition.
Light white wine – Complements the tangy tomatoes and creamy base.

Ideal Occasions

Quick weeknight dinners – Fast preparation with minimal cleanup.
Casual family meals – Comforting flavors that appeal to all ages.
Small dinner gatherings – Elegant presentation without complex preparation.
Meal prep cooking – Reheats well for lunches or next-day dinners.

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps well for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with added broth or milk – Restores creamy consistency.
Avoid overcooking during reheating – Prevents chicken from drying out.
Freeze without spinach or cream for best results – Add fresh when reheating.

Creative Variations to Try

Mediterranean twist – Add olives, artichokes, or feta cheese.
Spicy version – Include red pepper flakes or chili oil.
Lighter option – Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for cream.
Vegetarian adaptation – Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Orzo too dry – Stir in warm broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Chicken overcooked – Add it back only at the final heating stage.
Sauce too thin – Simmer uncovered briefly or add extra Parmesan.
Bland flavor – Increase seasoning, garlic, or sun-dried tomatoes for depth.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish succeeds because it layers flavor at each stage—browning chicken for savory depth, sautéing aromatics for sweetness, and simmering orzo directly in broth to absorb concentrated taste. The starch released from the pasta naturally thickens the sauce, while cream and Parmesan create a smooth emulsion that coats every ingredient evenly. The result is a balanced, protein-rich meal with moderate calories compared to heavier cream-based pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo Skillet delivers comforting flavor, practical simplicity, and satisfying nutrition in one approachable recipe. Its creamy texture, vibrant ingredients, and adaptable nature make it ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxed gatherings, with easy options to lighten the dish while preserving its rich character.